Mutual Housing California recently received a loan of nearly $1.97 million from the California State Department of Housing and Community Development to renovate Owendale Mutual Housing Community.

Feb 18, 2016

Mutual Housing California recently received a loan of nearly $1.97 million from the California State Department of Housing and Community Development to renovate Owendale Mutual Housing Community.

Since solar panels already are installed at the Davis property, the improvements will create further energy savings and a healthier environment.

“Owendale is one of the five solar energy-producing, multifamily communities Mutual Housing owns and operates in Davis,” said Rachel Iskow, Mutual Housing California chief executive officer. “The green renovations will result in healthier homes for residents and an overall decrease in greenhouse gases.”

After the renovation, five additional apartments will be set aside for disabled individuals making the transition to independent living from hospitals or other institutions.

Since Mutual Housing received a federal rent subsidy for these units, the nonprofit will be able to offer them to disabled people with little income. Local nonprofit Davis Community Meals currently provides services for several formerly homeless individuals at the property and will continue this service.

“Mutual Housing already serves physically, mentally and developmentally disabled households, but the funds allow the nonprofit to make the housing even more affordable to a population that often falls victim to discrimination in their search for housing,” said Iskow.

Mutual Housing will be installing more energy-efficient appliances, water heaters, bathroom fans and heating-air conditioning units in the 45 apartments and townhomes. Floors will be replaced, countertops resurfaced, as needed. Water-wise and energy-efficient plumbing and lighting fixtures also will be installed.

Repainting and reroofing the buildings with cool roofing material, installing new energy efficient LED outdoor lighting, and revamping the patio fencing also will be part of the upgrade. Adding more drought-tolerant landscape and installing a smart irrigation system will help reduce outdoor water use.

Mutual Housing received a loan commitment from the Sacramento Bank of Commerce as well as one from the City of Davis. The nonprofit also will use $200,000 funding received from NeighborWorks America to make the green upgrades.

The renovation is in the design stage. Once work is completed later this year, Mutual Housing will apply for green certification.